Cayenne pepper powder consists of dried and ground cayenne chilies. It delivers a bright red color along with moderate heat (30,000 to 50,000 Scoville heat units). But among the typical spices on the common spice rack, cayenne is easily the spiciest you’ll find. The heat scares many off, but cayenne pepper can be very versatile […]
Seven Delectable Chicory Uses
Chicory comes in many forms, consider the fact that frisée and radicchio are both considered chicories. Belgian endive is another chicory and is arguably the most common version. Chicory is versatile and both the leaves and the root are useful. Consider the following seriously delectable chicory uses – using all aspects of the herb. Make […]
10 Classic European Chervil Uses
Chervil looks a little like flat leaf Italian parsley combined with cilantro. It has the same frilly leaves that can be either flat or tightly curled. The big difference is that chervil leaves are smaller and thinner than those of cilantro and parsley. You will see chervil used a lot in French cuisine; it has a licorice flavor profile […]
Five Flavorful Lemongrass Uses
Lemongrass is an herb in the citronella family that has a strong citrus flavor profile and a coarse, fibrous texture. It is a versatile herb once you understand how to use its flavors. Note that lemongrass is one of those herbs that you will need to understand to be able to use it effectively; however, […]
Seven Traditional (And Tasty) Saffron Uses
Saffron is not just the world’s most expensive spice, it is the world’s most expensive food. The high cost stems from how much work it takes to harvest it. Saffron threads are the stamens of the crocus flower. Cooks prize them for their earthy, nutty flavor and bright yellow color. To get the most from […]
Nine Delicious (Old And New) Za’atar Uses
Za’atar is a seasoning blend from the Middle East that has been around for centuries and which includes oregano and marjoram along with sumac. Those are just the main ingredients; other ingredients can vary based on where you are in the Middle East — you might see mint and savory in some blends as well […]
Five Classic (And Tasty) Basil Uses
Basil belongs to the mint family but has a unique flavor. The flavor is minty and herbaceous with subtle licorice and citrus notes; the different characteristics of basil’s flavor vary in intensity according to which variety of the herb you are using. Pesto Basil leaves play an important role in one of the simplest and […]
Five Savory And Sweet Star Anise Uses
Star anise and anise are two spices that share a name but come from different botanical families. Something else they share is a distinctive licorice note in their flavor profile. What they don’t share is an appearance — star anise is named for its unique five-pointed pods. The strong licorice note is one of the […]
What Are The Best Spices For Ribs?
Ribs are sometimes marinated but the most popular way to season them in the US is with a dry rub. You will often see the same spices showing up in both marinades and rib rubs. A dry rub is a blend of dried and ground spices that can sometimes include herbs. Rib meat is typically […]
How To Rehydrate Herbs For The Best Flavor
Dehydration refers to the removal of moisture from herbs; rehydration involves returning moisture to those dried herbs. Herbs are dried to make them last longer, but dried herbs are rarely superior to the fresh version. The drying process results in oxidation, which can have negative effects on flavor and texture. While it is usually not […]